Bali

Hoodlum provides premier film fixer services in Bali, offering comprehensive support to international film production teams. With a wealth of experience, we excel in location scouting, permit acquisition, and sourcing local crews, ensuring your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Bali

Capital

Denpasar

Main Cities

Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Canggu

Local Languages

Balinese

Currency

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Climate

Idal Filming May - September

General Visa Requirements:

Foreign film crews must obtain the D14 Journalist Visa (valid up to 60 days per visit). A local Indonesian production company is required to sponsor the visa and apply for all filming permits. Applications typically include passport, visa form, photos, film permit, sponsorship letter, detailed itinerary, equipment list, and proof of payment.

Required Documents:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
Completed visa application form
Recent passport photo
Travel itinerary or flight ticket
Proof of visa-fee payment
Invitation/sponsorship letter from an Indonesian production company
Project description, script, equipment list
Health insurance (recommended)
Company profile, bank statements, and list of locations (often requested)

Visa Application Process:

You can start your Visa Application here.

Processing Time:

Approximately 6 weeks. Apply 30–60 days before filming.

Cost:

Approx. USD 200

Accreditation Requirements:

Accreditation is processed as part of the visa application, supported by the local sponsor.

All crew must hold valid visas and film permits.

Required Documents:

Passport valid for 6 months
Company profile
Project description
Bank statements
Full list of locations
Script, equipment list
Sponsorship letter from Indonesian production company

Processing Time:

14–30 working days (Recommend applying 30–60 days before shooting.)

Cost:

Included in the visa/permit process.

Issuing Organization:

Film permits are issued by:

Indonesian Ministry of Tourism & Creative Economy (Film Development Center), or
Local Tourism Office depending on location.

Required Documents:

Completed permit application form
Script & storyboard
Filming schedule
Location list & maps
Equipment list
Crew list
Proof of liability insurance

Processing Time:

14–30 working days (Apply 30–60 days prior.)

Cost:

Varies widely by location, duration, and production scale. (Reality TV rates not publicly standardised.)

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

A local fixer secures private locations (villas, resorts, temples) by negotiating with owners, arranging permits, coordinating logistics, and ensuring compliance with cultural and legal requirements.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Location fees are fully negotiable and quoted only after the production shares:

Project synopsis
Specific filming requirements
Duration
Equipment needs

Drone Regulations:

Drone filming is tightly regulated and requires approvals from the Indonesian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Key requirements:

Permit from DGCA
Licensed local drone pilot (mandatory)
Max altitude: 400 ft
No flights within 5 km of airports
Maintain safe distances from people/structures
Highly regulated; local operator strongly recommended

Drone Importation Regulations:

Permit from Indonesian Ministry of Trade
Declaration with Directorate General of Customs
Duties/taxes applied to drone and accessories

Permit Issuance:

DGCA – Office of the Director of Airworthiness & Aircraft Operations

Timing:

7–14 working days.

Cost:

Varies based on production synopsis and drone type.
Costs must be confirmed with DGCA/AirNav.

Carnet Status:

Yes – Indonesia accepts ATA Carnets.

Required Documents:

ATA Carnet
Commercial invoice
Packing list
Import permit or related licences (if required)

Issuing Organization:

Indonesian Customs & Excise Department (Bea Cukai)

Timing:

2–5 working days depending on shipment complexity and customs workload.

Cost:

N/A (Carnet avoids duties; only processing/admin costs may apply.)

General Overview:

Bali is a popular, film-friendly destination with strong cultural appeal, beautiful landscapes, and welcoming local communities. The government actively supports international productions.

Security Requirements:

Hire local security personnel familiar with production environments
Use security for gear protection, crowd control, and location access
Follow local cultural guidelines and respect sacred sites
Work with a local fixer for all logistical and regulatory navigation

Rebates/Incentives:

Bali/Indonesia does not offer film rebates or tax incentives.

Meet our Local Team

Bali

Adam

Bali

Karsten

Bali

Rofiana

Client Brief

Fill in our client brief and we’ll get back to you with everything you need to start filming in this region.

Services We Provide in Bali

Accommodation

Airport Protocol & On-Ground Support

Casting & Talent

Catering

Crew Sourcing

Customs Clearance

Drone & Aerial Permits

Drone & Drone Operator

Equipment Rentals

Film Permits

Line Producers & Production Management

Local Film Fixers

Locations / RECCE’s

Logistics

Rebates & Incentives

Research

Risk Management

Security

Set Dressing / Production Design

Transport & Vehicles

Visas & Work Permits

News from the Region

Drone Filming in Bali

Bali is one of those locations that can make a treatment sparkle before…

Introduction

Bali, with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and iconic locations such as Ubud, Kuta, and Seminyak, has become a sought-after destination for filmmakers worldwide. Whether you’re working on a commercial, feature film, TV series, or documentary, Hoodlum’s expert team on the ground is your trusted partner for efficient film production logistics and services.

Planning to film in Bali? Let Hoodlum handle all the details—from permits to locations—so you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life.

Country Overview

Welcome to Bali, the ultimate playground for filmmakers! With its jaw-dropping beaches, lush jungles, and culture so vibrant it practically dances on screen, Bali is Southeast Asia’s gift to the creative world. Whether you’re chasing epic sunsets or magical temples, this island is ready for its close-up.

Why settle for ordinary when you can film in paradise? Let Hoodlum handle the paperwork, permits, and logistics so you can focus on capturing Bali’s beauty and making movie magic. Contact Hoodlum today and discover how we can make your Bali film production a resounding success.

Film Rebates and TAX Incentives

Confirm availability with the Indonesian Film Development Board or local service providers.

Bordering Countries:

Bali is an island province surrounded by the Indian Ocean, with Australia to the south.

Main Cities:

Denpasar (capital), Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Canggu

Local Languages:

Balinese

Local Currency:

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Climate:

Ideal filming conditions during the dry season (May–September) with sunny weather and low humidity.

Visa Requirements for film crews

General Requirements:

Limited Stay Visa (LSV)
Film permit from the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy
Supporting documents: Passport, sponsorship letter, equipment list

Application requirements

Passport, completed visa application form, recent photos, itinerary, equipment list, and proof of payment

Processing Time:

7–14 working days; apply at least 30 days before filming

Cost:

Approx. USD 135–400

Application Link:
Bali Visa Application

Private Locations

Hoodlum Bali will coordinate permits, logistics, and access to private locations (villas, resorts, temples)

Film crew accreditation

Requirements:

Submit an application to the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy
Obtain a film permit and visas

Documentation:

Passport, visa, proof of insurance, equipment list, script, sponsorship letter

Processing Time:

14–30 working days; recommended to apply 30–60 days before filming

Cost:

Approx. USD 470–1,810

General Film Permit

Issuing Organization:

Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Film Development Centre)

Processing Time:

14–30 working days; apply 30–60 days before filming

Application Requirements

Permit application form, script, storyboard, filming schedule, location list, equipment list, crew list, insurance

Cost:

Costs vary; dependent on location, duration, and type of production

Drone Permit

Drone regulations
Permit required from the Indonesian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)

Documentation

Permit application, drone registration, insurance, pilot license, flight plan

Processing Time
7–14 working days

Drone importation regulations
Requires permits, invoices, and detailed component lists

Equipment Customs Clearance

Carnet Status
Yes, Indonesia is a Carnet country

General process
ATA Carnet submission and presentation upon entry/exit

Processing Time
2–5 working days

Cost

Approx. USD 35–140

Safety and Security

Bali is a film-friendly destination with initiatives supporting international productions.

Recommended Security:

Hire local specialists for equipment, location, and crowd security.

Conclusions

Bali offers a stunning backdrop for filmmakers, combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and a welcoming environment for international productions. Hoodlum Film Fixers Bali is your trusted partner in navigating the intricacies of filming on this remarkable island. From obtaining permits and coordinating logistics to sourcing top-tier local crews, we ensure every aspect of your production is handled seamlessly.

Whether you’re capturing Bali’s serene beaches, bustling cities, or sacred temples, Hoodlum provides the expertise to turn your creative vision into reality. Let us handle the details while you focus on telling your story. Reach out today and discover how Hoodlum can make your Bali production a hassle-free and unforgettable experience.